Workers in the National Ambulance Service, who are members of SIPTU and Unite, have voted to accept a Labour Court recommendation aimed at ending a dispute over pay.
In May, frontline ambulance staff engaged in a 24-hour strike, with the HSE saying it had a “significant impact” on services.
Further planned strikes were stood down to allow for talks at the Labour Court.
SIPTU and Unite had accused the HSE of failing to implement the recommendations of an independent report on updating staff salary scales to reflect changes in responsibilities and workload.
The Labour Court recommended pay rises of up to 23% for paramedics and 20% for medical emergency technicians, as well as pay rises for other grades involved.
Members of SIPTU and Unite have voted overwhelmingly in favour of accepting the proposals.
“The result indicates that the Labour Court recommendation definitely addressed the issues at the heart of this dispute,” said SIPTU Ambulance Sector Organiser John Mc Camley.
Unite regional officer Eoin Drummey said the pay deal finally recognises the upskilling, changes and workload undertaken by ambulance workers over the last 15 to 20 years.
“It is a vindication of our members’ determination to seek pay justice and respect,” Mr Drummey said.
The HSE said it welcomed the acceptance by trade union members of the Labour Court recommendations.
“This represents an important and positive step for the service and our staff,” a spokesperson said.
“We look forward to working constructively with all parties to implement the recommendations,” they added.
